Moreton residents brace for water price surge as Unitywater announces $19.75 price hike

Residents of Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast, and Noosa are bracing for water bill rises after water utility Unitywater said the cost-of-living squeeze forced it to jack up its prices. SEE HOW MUCH YOU WILL PAY

Unitywater prices will rise next week by $19.75 a year or about $1.52 a week. Pictures: Contributed

Residents across the Moreton Bay Regional Council area are bracing for an increase in water and wastewater prices as Unitywater prepares to jack up the prices from Monday, July 1.

The utility company, responsible for servicing areas across the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, and Noosa regions, has announced that the average residential customer will face an additional cost of $1.52 per week, translating to about $19.75 on each quarterly bill.

Unitywater chief executive Anna Jackson said the price adjustment was necessary to meet the rising costs of materials and services essential for maintaining and expanding the network.

Highlighting the impact of rapid regional growth, Ms Jackson said 70 per cent of Unitywater’s projects for the upcoming fiscal year were geared towards accommodating this growth, a significant increase from the average of 30 per cent over the past three years.

She also acknowledged potential financial strain on customers facing rising costs of living and said support options would be available.

“We understand that circumstances can change, and we encourage anyone needing assistance with their bills to contact us promptly,” she said.

“Our operational expenses have escalated, from fuel and energy to the procurement of pipes, tools, and waste disposal services.

“To ensure the reliability and growth of our water and wastewater services amid population expansion, we are committed to investing $1.8 billion over the next five years.

“Operating in one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions presents both challenges and opportunities.

“Our capital program reflects our dedication to enhancing infrastructure capabilities to meet the needs of our expanding community.”

Unitywater’s new prices come into play next week on July 1. Picture: Contributed

Residents suffering from hardship were encouraged to review billing details to understand the implications for their household budgets and to take up available support options tailored to their needs.

Unitywater’s bills include various costs, including the state government bulk water charges which are used to manage catchments, upgrade water storage dams, and treat bulk water for consumption.

Unitywater also ensures continuous service through its around-the-clock response teams, available to address any service interruptions across their extensive supply region, spanning from Everton Hills to Eumundi.

Unitywater offers a range of customer support initiatives, including extensions, smoothed payments, and personalised payment plans, accessible via phone or website.

Detailed information about Unitywater’s 2024-25 water and sewerage pricing, along with fees and charges for additional services, can be found on their website.

Originally published as Moreton residents brace for water price surge as Unitywater announces $19.75 price hike